Winchendon, MA

Winchendon is a small town of about 10,000. We are home to the Massachusetts State Veterans Cemetery, where more than 3,000 soldiers, wives, and infant children have found their final resting place. Visitors constantly say it is the nicest, most comforting place in the world. The winds blow through the pine trees, the air is fresh, and it’s so very quiet. A perfect place to reflect. The town is the same: lovely old homes, historic town areas, the Winchendon History and Cultural Center, ponds and lakes, bike trails, and so much more.

Stories About Winchendon

A new family moved here last August, and the same night that they moved into their home, the house burst into flames in the middle of the night. Not to let them tackle this on their own, we held many fundraisers to help support them. In another sad situation, two young boys lost both of their parents to illness last year. Locals once again came together to help the children, who are now living with an aunt and uncle in town. The American Legion Auxiliary recently held a Comedy for a Cause event that raised $2,900 for the boys.

Each year, our high school gives away scholarships to students, many of which are provided through local organizations and individuals. One couple left their estate to provide scholarships upon their passing. These scholarships continue after more than 25 years!

Volunteers have raised funds to place flags on every telephone pole in the town. So far, they’ve placed flags throughout the downtown, north to the Fire Station, west to the American Legion, south to the intersection leading to the Veterans Cemetery, and east along Maple Street. They’re fundraising to continue placing flags in the Veterans Cemetery. Each December, students, veterans, and volunteers decorate the graves at the Veterans Cemetery with Wreaths Across America. Scouts decorate the graves at Memorial Day, and about 400 people regularly attend the annual Veterans Day ceremonies at the local American Legion.

Volunteers repaired the old clock atop the former Murdock High School (now the Winchendon Senior Center) and Toy Town Horse at the center of town. Fundraising projects have also been held to develop town parks honoring Winchendon residents who’ve fought in wars.